PLACES TO VISIT | CASTLES AND FORTS

Sagres Fortress

Rising at the top of Sagres Point, this fortress may have been built by Infant D. Henrique (the forerunner of Portuguese Discoveries) in the 15th century. It was later severely damaged by English pirate Francis Drake and by 1755 earthquake. Even though current restoring works have changed the character of the remaining former fortress, this location still preserves the spirit of the past, along with several interesting spots that survived the passing of time. Among them is Nossa Senhora da Graça Church and a giant compass rose (over 43m in diameter) drawn in the floor with stones that may have been a sun watch. An exhibit centre, a multimedia room and a shop can be found here. It is also worth mentioning the fantastic view offered by this cliff (constantly hit by wind) upon Mareta inlet and Cape São Vicente. (National Monument)